Course summary

This programme provides an intensive grounding in the philosophy of cognitive science, its methodologies, research questions and techniques of research with an emphasis on issues surrounding situated and embodied cognition. By choosing this programme, you will be entering one of the most exciting areas of contemporary research in philosophy of mind, an increasingly popular field in which many large unsolved problems remain. Key research areas This programme examines the wide landscape of issues that arise where philosophy of mind meets the study of psychology, linguistics, and cognitive science. Embodied cognition is the study of minds as embedded in, interacting with, and inextricable from the physical, biological, and social environments in which they evolve, develop, and act. It marks a point of convergence between the front-lines of cognitive science and philosophy, drawing on analytic and continental traditions, the philosophy of mind and language, the philosophy of biology, moral philosophy and ethics, in live dialogue with empirical research in psychology, linguistics, artificial intelligence, robotics, human-computer interaction, and beyond. Philosophy is rated 4th in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). What will I learn? You will be taught the core areas and arguments, and principles of research in the philosophy of mind and cognitive science. You can also take advantage of the highly interdisciplinary nature of research within philosophy and draw on teaching and research both elsewhere in the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences and within other relevant Schools. Is this MSc for me? This programme provides an understanding of philosophy of the mind and cognitive science, and you can customise your learning in areas you are most passionate about. It provides an excellent preparation for further research and knowledge of philosophy of the mind and cognitive science, whether you choose to pursue this in further in academic research or in a professional career. Reputation, relevance and employability Edinburgh has a proud and distinguished place in the history of philosophy and has long been associated with some of the field’s most important thinkers. Our philosophy department, one of the largest in the world, is now home to academics leading research into a wide range of contemporary topics, including internationally recognised leaders in the study of mind, language and embodied cognition. You will benefit from the breadth and strength of the interdisciplinary academic community at Edinburgh, having the opportunity to select option courses and attend research seminars across different disciplines. Our students’ research projects are often published in academic or professional journals. Our programme has an excellent reputation among employers and further research opportunities. Many of our graduates have gone onto PhD training and we have a high academic job placement record. Find out more about our community The School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences is home to a large, supportive and active student community, hosting events and activities throughout the year which you can join. As a postgraduate student you will have access to a range of research resources, state of the art facilities, research seminars and reading groups.